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What Oklahoma State fans are saying about Mike Gundy

By Gina Mizell •
Published: December 15, 2012

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What OSU fans are saying about Mike Gundy's perception after interviewing with Tennessee and Arkansas:

Dan Deaver, 68, Mangum, OSU graduate and season-ticket holder: “I still support (Gundy) and (athletic director Mike) Holder, but am less satisfied with Coach Gundy that I was before this. I continue to trust his judgment even though I think this move was selfish, immature and irresponsible. He has damaged OSU and he has damaged his legacy.”

Brad Thorpe, 28, Stillwater, former OSU student: “We have seen a total system transformation under (Gundy). The fact that he allegedly entertained job offers from other schools should be expected for a coach with his prestige and resume. My opinion of him never wavered throughout the entire meltdown.”

James Morrill, 51, Lee's Summitt, Mo., OSU graduate: “I believe Gundy's credibility has taken a hit during this situation …. The question now is, ‘Is Mike Gundy going to add his name to the list of coaches (like Jimmy Johnson and Les Miles) who move on?' Before, I would have said no. Now, I think the possibility exists.”

Greg Blocker, 46, Tulsa, OSU graduate: “There are those who are just flattered by the attention of potential suitors. The process makes them feel wanted and appreciated. They don't necessarily dislike where they are, but enjoy the wooing and stroking that comes from being told, ‘I want you.'”

Chris Heasley, 29, Broken Arrow, OSU graduate and season-ticket holder: “For me, it changed a lot more last year with the contract issues. I realized at that time while he might enjoy it here, it is still just a job.”

Jean Smith, Dallas, OSU graduate: “Someone — T. Boone (Pickens), please — needs to say ‘Now boys, grow up! Can't we just get along and stop raining on our own parade now that we finally have the attention and wins we've always craved?' Now old memories, disappointments and doubts creep into my confidence. I watch in horror-filled disbelief the self-inflicted wounds to our program and reputation as Holder and Gundy publicly play out their differences.”

Nancy Osborn, Tryon, OSU graduate and season-ticket holder: “Still respect Gundy tremendously. I'm a business professional, love my job, don't want to leave and I still will interview any time one is offered or requested. That's the way the world works.”

Taralyn Stearnes, 21, Claremore, OSU season-ticket holder: “The more serious the rumors became, the more I felt hurt and betrayed. I realize Gundy has to do what is best for him and his family, but the SEC, really? This is his alma mater, his home state. He said earlier in the season that his goal is to win a (national championship) at OSU, and yet he is willing to walk out the door just like that? There is something fishy going on there.”

Dalton Worthington, 27, Bixby, OSU graduate: “I have no problem with what went on this coaching carousel period because it's about the program control.”

Chris James, Waurika, OSU season ticket holder: “My thoughts on Mike Gundy and his supposed flirtations with other football programs are that he was surely just pushing back on Mike Holder trying to get some leverage to allow him some level of decision-making in scheduling games. A thin line, was it worth all the negative media and possible loss of recruits? It's hard to say, but I don't think he was serious about leaving and he has my support as a fan because I have to believe that he knows what is best for OSU football.”